World: Neuer on Sonday

Perhaps what the England of Christine Keeler and Stephen Ward needs is a touch of old Scotland. Judging by the archaic language of the Scottish Bigamy Act (1551), few offenders are more frowned upon than "thame that maryis twa sindrie wyfis or husbandis levand togiddir undervorsit [undivorced]." Under the act, punishment of such culprits is fixed at "confiscatioun of all theair gudis mouabill of their persounis for yeir and day." Also, they may "neuer habill to bruke [never again bear] office of honour, dignitie nor benefice."

As it happens, this harsh treatment has not been meted out for monny a year lang...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!